West Ham, Leeds and Fulham Eyeing Hamburg Striker Davie Selke
West Ham, Fulham and Leeds United have all expressed interest in Hamburg striker Davie Selke, according to reports. The 30-year-old scored 22 goals in 31 games last season, firing HSV back to the Bundesliga after a seven-year absence from Germany’s top flight.
The Express understands that Selke’s Hamburg contract expires on June 30 and he is yet to agree on an extension with club bosses. Staying at Volksparkstadion remains a possibility, but while approaching free agency, a number of interested clubs have established contact with the player’s camp. One of Selke’s suitors is his former club, RB Leipzig, and they are in pole position to sign him if he leaves Hamburg this summer.
According to sources, Selke left Leipzig eight years ago, and their European ambitions have allowed them to put forward a convincing case. However, if they switch their focus to other targets, and Hamburg refuse to meet his demands, there are a handful of English sides with eyes on the situation. The Express reports that Leeds chiefs have been in direct contact to explore Selke’s personal demands. West Ham and Fulham are also considering Selke among a list of attacking transfer targets. Additionally, Watford hold a concrete interest in the forward, but a Championship move is highly unlikely while top-flight options are available.
All three Premier League sides want to reinforce their attacking ranks this summer, and the chance to do that without forking out for a transfer fee makes Selke an attractive proposition. As noted by the Express, Selke has spent his entire professional playing career in Germany, and while staying at Hamburg or joining Leipzig are the two most likely outcomes for him this summer, a move to the Premier League would be considered if the trio in question firm up their interest.
Leeds’ chances of signing Selke will rely on Leipzig pulling out of the race, given that Red Bull own a stake in both clubs. Fulham and West Ham could have a say, but both are understood to be looking at targets higher up their priority lists. As reported by the Express, Selke, who was the top scorer in 2. Bundesliga last season, has also turned out for the likes of Werder Bremen, Hertha Berlin and FC Koln. He represented Germany up to Under-21 level and played for their Olympics team in 2016, scoring two goals.
Standing 6ft 5in tall, Selke has nurtured a reputation for his aerial threat and hold-up play in the 12 years since his senior breakthrough. With his contract situation and interest from several clubs, the summer is set to be a pivotal one for the Hamburg striker. As the Express previously reported, Selke’s future is set to be a major talking point in the coming weeks, with several top-flight clubs eyeing a potential move for the talented forward.
The interest in Selke is a boost for Leeds, West Ham and Fulham, who are all looking to strengthen their squads ahead of the new season. As noted by the Express, a free transfer deal for Selke would be an attractive option for the clubs, who are looking to make smart signings in the current market. With his impressive form last season and experience playing at the top level, Selke could prove to be a shrewd signing for any of the clubs interested in him.
The Express understands that Selke’s situation is being closely monitored by several clubs, and a decision on his future is expected to be made in the coming weeks. With his talent and experience, Selke is sure to be a coveted player this summer, and it remains to be seen which club will ultimately secure his signature.
Source: The Express
